I spoke to our sheriff yesterday by phone asking if he knew about the ODOT right-of-way issue and what his overall take on Flock surveillance cameras was. He provided a statement that he said I could share. Here it is in full:

My position on Flock cameras after having looked at them for Washington County is based primarily on the Constitutional concerns and secondarily the budgetary aspect.

With respect to the Constitution, I’m rightfully concerned with even the appearance of approaching fourth amendment boundaries. It is our responsibility to respect our citizens liberties first and foremost above all.

With respect to the budgetary aspect, unlike Bartlesville, we simply do not have the resources to spend $3000 per camera per year on a surveillance system that may or may not make a material difference.

Scott Owen

Sheriff Washington County